Maraschino cherries | Vanilla | Apple | Touch of rye spice | Light grain

Sweet corn | Brown sugar | Allspice | Spicy oak

Cinnamon | Seasoned oak | Walnut | Summer fruit | Lingering spice

Doc Swinson’s began in 2017 by the folks at Distiller's Way, a company that helps birth bourbon brands for whiskey startups. As they tell their story, the team came across a particularly special group of barrels that they decided to release themselves. The Doc Swinson’s Collection grew from there and the brand has built a loyal following thanks to their many finished whiskeys and experimental blends.

The company’s Session Blends were developed to fill a need for a lower proof option for cocktail making and a more approachable sip for any level of bourbon drinker. Sourced from MGP and blended from two different mashbills, Doc Swinson’s 5 Year Old Session Blend should accomplish its stated goal, but anyone that is familiar with MGP will know exactly what they’re in for.

The nose is light and fruit focused with Maraschino cherries and apple taking the top billing. From there vanilla and rye spice round things out. The palate is sweet and corn focused, with additional notes of brown sugar weaving throughout. The inclusion of allspice and spicy oak help provide contrast and depth. The finish ends in a good spot with a dose of cinnamon, seasoned oak, and walnut, along with a touch of summer fruit. Overall, the bourbon harnesses MGP’s approachability that many of their bourbons offer. Anyone who is familiar with MGP’s flavor profile won’t find anything new here and it’s likely they will turn their focus to the company’s finished whiskeys instead. At the very least, you sure can’t beat its price.